Shepherd’s Purse
Botanical Information
Working with Shepherd’s Purse
Part(s) Used
Herb Forms
Affects
Shepherd’s purse is an effective diuretic and astringent used for nosebleed, water retention, and diarrhea. It is famous for checking excessive menstrual flow or postpartum bleeding. When used as a hemostatic, the fresh tincture should be taken every hour or two. The herb loses its potency rapidly, and a good-quality "fresh-plant" tincture should be stored in a cool place out of the direct sunlight. It will retain its potency for 6-9 months.
In Europe, shepherd’s purse tincture is recommended for lowering mild high blood pressure.
The tincture is the most effective way to take this herb. For average use, 1-3 dropperfuls 2-3 x daily is sufficient. To stop postpartum bleeding, heavy menstrual flows, or hemorrhage, take 1/2 or even 1 tsp of the tincture every 1/2 hour. Watch for heart palpitations, and reduce the dose if these occur.
Shepherd’s Purse has a taste of PUNGENT, SWEET and a temperature of NEUTRAL.
